A swimming champion who has struck gold five times at the Paralympic Games has enjoyed her first trip to the island.

Ellie Simmonds, a 14-time world champion with 10 European titles collected since beginning her career aged 13, starred as guest of honour at the Isle of Man Sport Awards on Thursday.

The 23-year-old was ’excited’ to take part in the ceremony, which celebrated efforts made by Manx athletes, coaches and sponsors of a range of activities in the island.

She said: ’I feel really honoured to come here. I’ve heard a lot about the Isle of Man and so it’s great to have the chance to visit, especially due to the weather at the moment.’

On her first day in the island (Thursday), Ellie met up with the Isle of Man Swimming team at the Western Swimming Pool.

’They were very accommodating and it was great to see them all. I got to meet Letisha Ellis, one of the nominees who is deaf, as well as seeing the facilities there and at the NSC, which are great!’

’The Isle of Man is very supportive of all sports. This year, with the Commonwealth Games, there’s a big team going over to Australia, which is very exciting for the whole community.

’Having awards are really important to help recognise people in the sporting world. When they get that recognition it’s very motivational and very rewarding. It’s also very important having role models in sport. When I was young I was inspired by swimmers and paralympians. They inspired me to do something in life and it is huge honour that I can have a similar affect on others.

’I’m a patron for the Dwarf Sports Association UK, which I’ve been a part of since I was a baby and I’m also an ambassador for Sainsbury’s Active Kids. Being able to support people in sport can give them confidence, which is such a positive thing.’

The athlete is to compete in the upcoming European championships and is aiming for the Paralympics in Tokyo 2020.

â?¢ See p64 for winners.